Books

Coming soon to Netflix: Neil Gaiman's popular comic book series

Fans of Neil Gaiman rejoice – one more of his work is set to be adapted for the screen.

After more than three years of failed attempts to make a screen adaptation, Netflix has finally acquired The Sandman for a live-action TV series in a reportedly “massive” deal with Warner Bros.

Throughout the years, attempts to adapt the popular horror fantasy comic book series – which has been running since 1989 – have floundered. The most recent was in 2016, when a plan to produce a feature film directed by Third Rock From The Sun star Joseph Gordon-Levitt dissolved.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, industry insiders said the show will become “the most expensive TV series that DC Entertainment has ever done”.

Gaiman will be involved in the show as an executive producer along with Wonder Woman (2017) screenwriter Allan Heinberg and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016) screenwriter David S. Goyer.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the brilliant team that is Neil Gaiman, David S. Goyer and Allan Heinberg to finally bring Neil’s iconic comic book series, The Sandman, to life onscreen,” said Channing Dungey, VP of original series at Netflix.

“From its rich characters and storylines to its intricately built-out worlds, we’re excited to create an epic original series that dives deep into this multi-layered universe beloved by fans around the world.”

The show, which will have 11 episodes in its first season, was described as “a rich blend of modern myth and dark fantasy in which contemporary fiction, historical drama and legend are seamlessly interwoven”.